When Education in Bahasa Malaysia is a Problem

A child receiving an education in Bahasa Malaysia but cannot read. How to handle this problem?

I am not talking about learning disabilities, I am talking about normal children who cannot read unless they get extra help. This may sound baffling as Bahasa Malaysia is a language that can be phonetically attacked. Yet, this is a fact as I myself keep meeting such children.

I would prefer not to debate on the education system in Malaysia, the time spent on trying to find someone to blame is better spent on extending practical help...after all, children grow up fast...

When Education in Bahasa Malaysia=a Problem, Try Phonics!

Personally, I find that giving appropriate emphasis on phonics is all these children need. I started by giving private lessons to one such child on a part-time basis and now this has become a full time job.

The method I use is suitable for children between 5-8 years old and so far almost all the children I teach are able to read on their own.This is how I do it: First, introduce the vowels a,o,e,i,u. Don't overwhelm the child by introducing all at one go. Pick one vowel, for instance "A", tell him it is the letter "A" and pronounce it. When the child has learnt to pronounce his first vowel, move on to the next one.

Then, introduce the consonants. This is how I group them:

1.B and P

2.C and J

3.D and T

4.G and K

5.L and R

6.M and N

7.F and H

8.S and Z

9.V,W and Y

10.Ny

11.Ng

Except for F and H, I put consonants of similar sounds in the same group. Thus, the child learns the subtle differences of let's say, B and P from the outset. Usually, I follow the sequence listed above.

Next, combine a consonant and a vowel. In my case, I find it easier to start with syllables consisting of only 2 letters (B+A)then advance to 3(B+A+N) and 4 (B+A+NG). .

Finally, I make words from ONE vowel and vowels followed by simple sentences. After the child has learnt well, add a new consonant.

There are many books in the market that teach children Suku Kata. However I created my own material because:

I grade the materials very carefully to ensure that the child builds on only what he knows for every lesson.

LOTS of emphasis on "Ng" and "Ny" for non-native speakers. Why? "Ng" and "Ny" are difficult for weak learners, this has to be acknowledged and tackled.

I like to add an element of FUN in my sentences to make the child eager to read and find out the meaning for himself.

I don't believe in feeding children pure fairy tales but I also don't believe in making them swallow dry facts not suited to their age. I like to choose a theme that is realistic and appealing to a child's mentality.

When Education in Bahasa Malaysia is a Struggle

Rest assured it is never a smooth process. The child practises many, many times just to get one consonant right. Lots of coaxing and patience are required.

Stick to a routine study schedule if possible. The amount of time and information should be tailored to the child's age and ability. Be firm and kind. Perseverance pays and it will come to a day...

When Education in Bahasa Malaysia is no longer a Problem!

It is a joy for me to see a child picks up his favourite book and reads aloud with pleasure - and six months ago, he looked at me helplessly and said: " Cikgu, saya tidak pandai baca."

I have seen this kind of transformation over and over again. I am in favour of a balanced approach in teaching literacy but if SUKU KATA can make a big difference, why not give it a try? The principles are simple but not easy to put into practice if you are not prepared to WORK very HARD with a child...I had done it many times...without making Jack a dull boy.

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